Sprouts: June 26th
Our last day of Sprouts was filled with all the ingredients that make forest school so special — adventure, creativity, connection, and just a sprinkle of magic (and thunder!).
🌩 The forecast called for storms, but we crossed our fingers and gathered in the morning with hope in our hearts. Waiting for us was a letter from Finny the Forest Fairy, reminding us of all we’d learned together and sharing one final challenge...
🍃 Finny told us about how fairies and gnomes use burdock leaves — as umbrellas, maps, even roofs for their tiny houses! She challenged us to find the biggest burdock leaves we could. After a fun-foraged search, we held our Burdock Art Show, with prizes for the greenest leaf, most leaves used, most creative use of colour, and even “most abstract.” Our Sprouts really outdid themselves.
🌿 The morning gave us time for swinging in the hammock, hapazome flower pounding, and rich imaginative play in the backyard — until a rumble of thunder sent us inside.
☁️ But a little weather never dampens a Sprout’s spirit! We cozied up for snack time, shared stories and giggles, and then dove into an impromptu puppet show. The kids chose a spooky theme — zombies, vampires, and robots took the stage in hilarious, creative performances.
🌤 Once the storm passed, we dashed back outside for a few rounds of Banana Tag and then strolled to Heron Tree Estates, where they engaged in the most civilized water balloon fight you could imagine. Using reusable water balloons, the kids practiced consent and communication: “I only want it thrown at my tummy,” one said, and their friends respected that beautifully. 💧
🔥 We capped off the morning with a campfire — roasting hot dogs and marshmallows — before heading out for one last adventure.
🌊 First stop: Silly Goose Beach at The Flats. We were thrilled to spot Alfred, our goose friend, and some of the children gently petted him. Weeks of patience and calm finally paid off!
🪨 Our wanderings continued to Rockwood Island Set, where we spotted a mysterious bird in the distance (was it a heron? a hawk? a forest spirit?). And then — onward to Bridgewater Bay, where the kids caught teeny fish and scrambled up the sloped concrete beside the dyke, building confidence and physical skill with every climb.
🥰 And just when we thought the day couldn’t get any better — a kind, thoughtful parent surprised us with a treat: lemonade, strawberries, and homemade cupcakes topped with fairy dust and a meringue mushroom!
Thank you, Earthkeepers, for such a wonderful session. It’s been a joy to witness your growth, your curiosity, and your love for the land. Until we meet again 🌱✨
